Audi's R15 Le Mans contender has been fully revealed and as expected, will be powered by a highly efficient clean-burning diesel powerplant when it makes its debut at the American Le Mans season opener in Sebring, Florida.

Like its successful R10 predecessor employing a V-12 oil burner, the new V-10 will be lighter, more fuel efficient and less polluting than comparably powered racers. It sends a stout 650-plus hp and more than 774 lb-ft of torque to the slick Michelin rubber and was thoroughly tested to ensure its longevity in one of the world's most demanding road races.

Extensive use of what Audi calls Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) was utilized to form the carbon fiber bodywork for airflow, cooling and downforce optimization. The technology was also key in the development of the brand's A4 DTM and R8 LMS works cars as well. The R15's longer wheelbase enables more agile handling prowess compared to the outgoing model, engineers claim.

A lighter, higher voltage lithium-ion battery powers all of the R15's on-board electronics. It's a motorsport first and will provide electric power to the car's other racing first, a set of LED low beam headlights.

Look for more coverage here on MT Online as the R15 makes its debut on March 21 at the 12 Hours of Sebring, followed by its competing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 13.